A table organizes items into groups, arranged as rows and columns.

Key features

• Cells: the boxes that make up the table

• Columns: cells grouped down the table:

• Rows: cells grouped across the table:

Table

A table is made of cells. Each cell belongs to two headings: its row heading and its column heading. You make meanings by joining a cell to its headings. For example "The weather on Mars is always cold."

Roll over the table with your mouse to learn more.

Why use tables in the classroom?

• To compare similarities and differences. Example
• To compare alternatives and make a decision. Example
• To check missing facts when doing research. (For example, in this table about Mars and Venus, the blank cell reminds you that you still need to research the "landscape features" of "Venus."
• To prepare an information report. Example

Other visual texts to compare with this one:

• Calendar (Has headings and columns like a table)
• Map (Uses a grid and coordinates like a table)
• Venn diagram (Allows you to put items in more than one cell, unlike a table)

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